16.8.1 Job Description: Barista / Cafe Assistant

16.8.1 Job Description: Barista / Cafe Assistant

Version: V2
Last Updated: October 2025
Review Date: April 2026
Owner: Operations Manager

1. Job Summary

Job Title: Barista / Cafe Assistant
Reports To: Store Manager / Shift Lead
Location: [Site-specific]
Employment Type: Part-time / Full-time / Zero-hours (as applicable)
Salary/Hourly Rate: [As per contract]

The Barista / Cafe Assistant is responsible for preparing high-quality coffee and food products, delivering exceptional customer service, and maintaining cleanliness and food safety standards at all times.

2. Key Responsibilities

2.1 Customer Service

  • Greet customers warmly and take orders accurately
  • Provide product recommendations and answer customer queries
  • Handle customer complaints professionally and escalate when necessary
  • Process payments via Odoo POS system (cash and card)
  • Maintain a friendly, welcoming atmosphere

2.2 Beverage & Food Preparation

  • Prepare coffee drinks, teas, hot chocolate, milkshakes, and specialty drinks to SOP standards
  • Operate coffee machines, grinders, and other equipment safely
  • Follow recipes and portion control guidelines
  • Ensure all products meet quality and presentation standards
  • Handle food safely in accordance with FSA guidelines and allergen procedures

2.3 Cleanliness & Hygiene

  • Maintain personal hygiene standards (uniform, handwashing, etc.)
  • Clean and sanitize work surfaces, equipment, and customer areas
  • Follow daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedules
  • Dispose of waste correctly and maintain recycling practices
  • Report maintenance or equipment issues immediately

2.4 Stock & Inventory

  • Monitor stock levels and inform manager of low inventory
  • Rotate stock using FIFO (First In, First Out) principles
  • Receive and store deliveries correctly
  • Minimize waste and report discrepancies

2.5 Cash Handling & Administration

  • Operate the till accurately and complete end-of-shift cashing up
  • Follow cash handling procedures (SOP 13.1–13.7)
  • Complete shift logs and incident reports as required

2.6 Health & Safety

  • Follow all health and safety procedures
  • Report hazards, accidents, or near-misses immediately
  • Participate in fire drills and emergency procedures
  • Complete mandatory training (food safety, allergen awareness, etc.)

3. Person Specification

3.1 Essential

  • Friendly, positive attitude with excellent customer service skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Good communication and teamwork skills
  • Willingness to learn and follow procedures
  • Reliable and punctual
  • Able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 10kg

3.2 Desirable

  • Previous barista or hospitality experience
  • Knowledge of coffee preparation and latte art
  • Food safety certification (Level 2)
  • Cash handling experience

4. Training & Development

  • Induction: Staff Induction SOP (16.1)
  • Barista Training: In-house training programme with competency checks
  • Food Safety: Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene certification (initial and annual refresher)
  • Allergen Awareness: Mandatory training on allergen management
  • Ongoing Development: Monthly competency checks, six-monthly reviews, mystery shopper feedback

5. Working Conditions

  • Hours: Variable shifts including weekends, evenings, and public holidays
  • Environment: Fast-paced cafe/mobile unit; standing for long periods; exposure to heat, steam, and noise
  • Uniform: Company uniform provided; must be worn clean and presentable
  • Breaks: As per UK Working Time Regulations and employment contract

6. Performance Standards

  • Consistently meet quality and service standards
  • Achieve positive customer feedback and mystery shopper scores
  • Complete all mandatory training on time
  • Maintain punctuality and attendance standards
  • Follow all SOPs and company policies

7. Related Documents

  • Staff Handbook
  • Staff Induction SOP (16.1)
  • Barista Training Programme (16.2)
  • Cash Handling SOPs (13.1–13.7)
  • Food Safety SOPs (Section 1)
  • Allergen Management SOP

Note: This job description is not exhaustive and may be updated to reflect the changing needs of the business. Employees will be consulted on any significant changes.